Despite recent reports suggesting Apple scrapped its plans to use microLED displays in the Apple Watch Ultra, new information indicates the company is still committed to the technology, albeit with a revised timeline and approach.
The confusion stemmed from Apple supplier Osram’s announcement of an unexpectedly canceled “cornerstone project,” which analysts initially linked to the rumored microLED Apple Watch. However, reports from DigiTimes and ETNews suggest Apple is actively seeking alternative suppliers after potentially encountering performance issues with Osram’s components.
Taiwanese firms AU Optronics and PlayNitride have emerged as potential frontrunners, with AUO already mass-producing microLED watch panels and PlayNitride specializing in related chips. While talks with PlayNitride reportedly faced hurdles, AUO’s advancements in microLED display technology make them a promising partner for Apple.
This aligns with previous industry insights highlighting Taiwan and South Korea’s strong manufacturing capabilities for microLED components. While analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously expressed concerns about microLED’s current cost-effectiveness for the Apple Watch Ultra, other sources believe these initial high costs are typical for pioneering technologies and can be managed through scale-up.
However, technical challenges remain, such as the absence of integrated circuit control within the LEDs and limitations in precise transfer using current stamp technology. This suggests Apple might prioritize using microLED in other products, like future, lighter versions of Apple Vision Pro, where cost constraints might be less significant.
Overall, while the Apple Watch Ultra’s microLED debut might be delayed, these reports indicate Apple’s commitment to eventually incorporating this next-generation display technology into its product line.
